Social support is key to success

If you've ever tried to accomplish a "get healthy" goal, you'll know that it's often met with various road blocks. Getting a solid network of supports to help you along is a proven method to achieving success. At the start of the 2013 My Heart Challenge, our 15 contestants were asked to identify who their biggest supporters are who will help them along the path.​​​

​In the first weekly updated provided by the 15 school principals competing in the My Heart Challenge, we asked them to fill in the blank: "My biggest supporter throughout the challenge will be _____________."

As you read their responses, think about the family and friends you would want behind you as you make a goal to become healthier.

Karen Chatterton (Cottonwood Elementary)"My husband and family will be my biggest supporters. They are trying to make heart-healthy changes in their lives as well, especially my husband."

Brent Shaw (Canyon View Elementary) "My family is by far my biggest support. My school office staff have also stepped up and helped me."

Ruth Peters (Peruvian Park Elementary)"My daughter is my supporter."

Becky Gerber (Herriman Elementary) "My family is encouraging me every day. They exercise with me and make sure food temptations are kept to an absolute minimum. When I express a craving or frustration, they are quick to offer positive suggestions in a loving, albeit firm, tone. It is apparent they want to see me succeed. The students are all about the competition. When talking with a group of older students last week about the My Heart Challenge, one young man shouted, 'WE can so win this thing. You go, Mrs. Gerber!' The support of the children is more motivating than I originally anticipated."

John Erlacher (Newman Elementary) "My biggest supporter would have to be my wife Marilyn, as she knows I am eager to get better control of my diabetes. She also knows how compulsive I can be regarding my exercise regiment at the expense of how I am eating."

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